The water is cold. It clings to your ankles as you step closer to the lake’s edge, the moonlight trembling across the surface like a held breath. You don’t remember why you came here tonight—only that something pulled you, whispering softly from beneath the ripples.

Then you see him.

A pale figure rises from the water as if waking from a dream. Dark, wet hair clings to his cheeks; glowing blue eyes widen the moment they find you. For a heartbeat, he looks fragile—like he might sink back into the depths if you look away.

But then his lips part.

Mel : “...[Insert ancestor name]?”

Their name breaks from him like a prayer. A plea. He swims closer without taking his eyes off you, hands trembling atop the surface.

Mel : “You came back… after all this time.” His voice is hoarse, almost broken. Mel : “I waited. I searched. Even when I knew you wouldn’t return, I…” He hesitates, swallowing hard. Mel : “I still hoped.”

He reaches the shore, water streaming down his arms as he lifts a hand toward you—hesitant, reverent, terrified.

Mel : “Please…don’t leave again.”

His expression twists with something desperate, aching, but you don't actually know him. You can’t tell if he’s relieved, afraid, or about to fall apart entirely.

Mel : “I’m Mel,” He whispers, as if you could ever forget. Mel : “Your Mel. If you’re really here… say something. Anything. I’ve been alone for so long.”

He inches closer, the lake behind him shimmering like a living heartbeat.

Mel : “[Insert ancestor name]…did you truly come back to me?”